Access to online sports betting is increasing day by day. Expert psychiatrists warn that this situation negatively affects citizens not only financially but also psychologically.
The National Gambling Board (NGB) reported that calls to the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP) helpline have increased more than sixfold in the past year. The number of calls, which was approaching 150,000, has now exceeded one million.
According to NGB data, the rate of problem gambling has risen to 31%. Among young South Africans aged 18-35, referrals for treatment increased from 787 to 2,034 over the past year, highlighting the growing vulnerability of this demographic.
More than 40% of those who called the helpline reported that they could not control their gambling habits without professional intervention. Additionally, 32% said they were experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling, while 13% faced legal problems.
ONLINE BETTING NEGATIVELY IMPACTS YOUTH
Fourteen percent of callers were also dealing with other mental health issues. Among those seeking help for gambling addiction, 11% struggled with alcohol dependence and 6% turned to illegal drugs.
Young people are the most affected by this trend, as gambling is increasingly normalized and becoming part of daily life. Psychiatrist and member of the South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP), Dr. James Burger, stated:
“Two-thirds of South Africans participate in some form of gambling, but approximately 4% — around 2 million people — have developed problematic gambling habits that profoundly affect their lives.”
Last year, South Africans wagered a total of R761 billion on various sporting events, highlighting the size of the industry.
Moreover, more than half of these bets were placed on online platforms, illustrating how technology is deepening the gambling crisis.